Reasons for optimism: OSU isn't going to scare anybody with its size and could potentially get out-muscled in games (hello, Wisconsin) but there is a wealth of speed and athleticism even if it's small. ... a
potentially very good OSU secondary would look even better if the
Beavers can stop the run and rush the quarterback effectively. ... the question is,
what kind of a pass rush will Oregon State have with its new-look lineup?
... JC transfer Rudolph Fifita may be asked to play a big role. ... redshirt freshman Scott Crichton drew raves in spring ball and appears ready for his emergence in the spotlight. Dominic Glover - assuming he clears up his academic issues - is smallish but quick at defensive tackle and that could take some pressure off returning starter Kevin Frahm
inside.Reasons for pessimism: The Beavers lose NFL-bound DT Stephen Paea, NFL-bound DE Gabe Miller, and heart-and-soul DT Brennan Olander - who together combined for 114 tackles and 14 sacks. ... even with those three on the field this was not a stellar defensive front statistically. OSU gave up huge chunks of yardage but still managed to rank No. 4 in
the conference and No. 24 nationally in QB sacks (2.5/game). More telling, the Beavers were 89th nationally against the run (179.50
yards allowed per game) and that must improve this season or the better Pac-12 quarterbacks will have their way with the OSU defense. The defensive line had "cross your fingers'' written all over it going into spring ball, and that hasn't changed as pre-season camp approaches. Several players will need stellar seasons - and the likes of Castro Masaniai, Ben Motter, Andrew Seumalo, and Mana Rosa may be shouldering a big load - if this is going to work.Grade (1-5): 2.5 - Too many potential holes and the uncertainty over Masaniai's situation (not totally cleared by head coach Mike Riley after spring legal problems) and Glover's academic issues keep this grade low. Some feel this is OSU's achilles heel, more so than a suspect offensive line.